Research Handbooks in European Law series

EU criminal law is one of the fastest evolving, but also challenging, policy areas and fields of law. This Handbook provides a comprehensive and advanced analysis of EU criminal law as a structurally and constitutionally unique policy area and field of research. With contributions from leading experts, focusing on their respective fields of research, the book is preoccupied with defining cross-border or ‘Euro-crimes’, while allowing Member States to sanction criminal behaviour through mutual cooperation. It contains a web of institutions, agencies, and external liaisons, which ensure the protection of EU citizens from serious crime, while protecting the fundamental rights of suspects and criminals.

Chapter 21: Eurojust

Handbook Chapter

Abstract

The foundation of Eurojust is closely linked to the creation of a European Area of Freedom, Security and Justice. In this area, security needs to be ensured through measures for transnational coordination and cooperation between judicial and law enforcement authorities, mutual recognition of judicial decisions in criminal matters and, if necessary, approximation of criminal laws. To reinforce the fight against serious organised crime, Eurojust was set up as the European Union’s Judicial Cooperation Unit in 2002. Eurojust’s mission is to stimulate and improve the coordination of investigations and prosecutions and the cooperation between the competent authorities in the Member States. As reaffirmed by the Lisbon Treaty, the framework for judicial cooperation in criminal matters is not a single legal area but 30 different legal systems. Eurojust builds bridges through its coordination tools and joint investigation teams facilitating mutual legal assistance and recognition and responding to emerging threats and a changing EU landscape.

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